Natures Glow Hostal in Ella is located 1.3 kilometres from Ella Train Station and 5.5 kilometres from the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge. This pet-friendly accommodation offers rooms with mountain views, a garden, free WiFi, and private parking, with a capacity for three guests.
8.7 2243 reviews
Sri Lanka
07/07 – 10/07
₹1792/nighttotal: ₹5376 (3 )
Drop Inn Hostels
1 2
hostel , Colombo
Drop Inn Hostels is located in Colombo, a short distance from Asiri Surgical Hospital and within a 3km radius of the U.S. Embassy and Lanka Hospitals. It boasts very good ratings for cleanliness, location and user experience. The hostel has a shared kitchen with a fridge, microwave oven and dishwasher, a terrace/balcony, a garden, a restaurant, a bar and a fitness centre. Guests can also benefit from room service, parking, air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, luggage storage and breakfast upon request.
9.1 179 reviews
Sri Lanka
17/07 – 24/07
₹3508/nighttotal: ₹24556 (7 )
Boo Kirinda Holiday Resort
1 5
hostel , Badulla
Boo Kirinda Holiday Resort in Badulla is conveniently located 24km from the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and 21km from Demodara Railway Station, offering easy access to these iconic Sri Lankan landmarks. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom holiday home provides guests with a swimming pool, terrace, garden, restaurant, room service, parking, and Wi-Fi, alongside an on-site water park and airport transfers.
9.0 330 reviews
Sri Lanka
28/07 – 03/08
₹3709/nighttotal: ₹22254 (6 )
Backpack Beach Hostel & Reggae Bar
2 4
hostel , Galle
Backpack Beach Hostel & Reggae Bar is located in Galle, just a short walk from Boossa Beach and Pitiwella Beach, offering easy access to the stunning coastline. The hostel is highly rated, with excellent user reviews for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hostel provides comfortable accommodation with a relaxed atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, terrace, garden, and free Wi-Fi, as well as parking and airport transportation.
8.4 82 reviews
Sri Lanka
02/07 – 06/08
₹3766/nighttotal: ₹131810 (35 )
Aura City Hostel
1 6
hostel , Anuradhapura
Aura City Hostel in Anuradhapura offers convenient accommodation 1.8km from Kumbichchan Kulama Tank and 2.3km from Kada Panaha Tank, placing guests within easy reach of major historical sites and the Nature Park. This family-friendly guesthouse features a garden, terrace, restaurant with room service, free Wi-Fi, and private parking, alongside a single bedroom with one bathroom.
9.0 222 reviews
Sri Lanka
27/06 – 04/07
₹1899/nighttotal: ₹13293 (7 )
H S Home Stay
1 4
hostel , Kandy
H S Home Stay, a guest house in Kandy, Sri Lanka, is conveniently located approximately 2.1 kilometres from the Kandy City Centre Shopping Mall, 3.2 kilometres from the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) and Kandy Museum, and 4.8 kilometres from the Royal Botanic Gardens. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom property offers free Wi-Fi, a terrace, and mountain and city views; on-site car rental is available.
9.8 140 reviews
Sri Lanka
01/08 – 31/08
₹1224/nighttotal: ₹36720 (30 )
Pepper Hills Hostel & Cottages
1 1
hostel , Ella
Pepper Hills Ella is a hostel located in Ella, 9.3 kilometres from the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and 9.3 kilometres from Ella Rock, offering a tranquil garden setting. This accommodation features a restaurant serving local, Asian, and international cuisine, a bar, shared lounge, shared kitchen, room service, and provides breakfast options, with car rental available for exploring the popular hiking area.
8.8 275 reviews
Sri Lanka
04/08 – 07/09
₹1877/nighttotal: ₹63818 (34 )
The Nest
3 5
hostel , Tangalle
The Nest hotel in Tangalle is conveniently located a short walk (1.6km) from Mulkirigala Rock Monastery and Red Beach, and approximately 1.8km from Tangalle and Marakkalagoda Beaches. This 2-star guesthouse offers a single bedroom with ensuite bathroom, a restaurant serving Indian, seafood and local cuisine (including vegetarian options), free Wi-Fi, valet parking, and a shared lounge; plus on-site darts and nearby cycling opportunities.
8.4 70 reviews
Sri Lanka
06/01 – 09/01
₹2328/nighttotal: ₹6984 (3 )
Sigiriya Lions Rest Hostel
2 5
hostel , Sigiriya
Sigiriya Lions Rest Hostel is situated in Sigiriya, less than 1.6km from Sigiriya Rock and 4.8km from Pidurangala Rock, offering convenient access to these iconic Sri Lankan landmarks. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse provides free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, private parking, a terrace, a garden, and a variety of breakfast options; it's suitable for families and couples, and is close to the Sigiriya Wildlife Range Office and Sigiriya Museum.
8.6 52 reviews
Sri Lanka
02/07 – 06/08
₹1795/nighttotal: ₹62825 (35 )
Holy Spirit Mission Camps
1 6
hostel , Mount Lavinia
Holy Spirit Mission Camps offers family-friendly Mount Lavinia accommodation, a short 0.6km walk from Mount Lavinia Beach and 0.4km from the Mount Lavinia bus stand, providing easy access to local transport and attractions such as Bambalapitiya Railway Station (7km away). This one-bedroom, one-bathroom campsite features free Wi-Fi, private parking, a terrace, garden, children's playground, and concierge service; sightseeing tours can be arranged, and it provides bed linen and towels.
8.7 284 reviews
Sri Lanka
27/07 – 02/08
₹995/nighttotal: ₹5970 (6 )
Feel Like Home Hostel Anuradhapura
1 2
hostel , Anuradhapura
Feel Like Home Anuradhapura guesthouse offers convenient accommodation in central Anuradhapura, situated within 3.2km of the railway station and close to key attractions including the Attikulama Tank and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. This single-bedroom, single-bathroom guesthouse sleeps one guest and features free Wi-Fi, private parking, a shared kitchen and lounge, an on-site currency exchange, Asian breakfast, and bike rentals for exploring Anuradhapura's historical sites.
9.4 65 reviews
Sri Lanka
24/12 – 09/01
₹1576/nighttotal: ₹25216 (16 )
The Travel Tree Hostel
1 3
hostel , Sigiriya
The Travel Tree Hostel in Sigiriya is conveniently located 1.8km from Sigiriya Rock and 4.8km from Pidurangala Rock, offering easy access to these iconic Sri Lankan landmarks. This guesthouse features a 26 square metre room with one bedroom, one bathroom, and accommodates one guest; amenities include a garden, terrace, parking, room service, and bike/car rentals.
Best Sri Lanka hostels with breakfast
Among the 1568 hostels in Sri Lanka, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast
9.2 251 reviews
Sri Lanka
27/07 – 31/07
₹3441/nighttotal: ₹13764 (4 )
Hive Ella - Hostel
1 2
hostel , Ella
Hive Ella Hostel in Ella is conveniently located half a kilometre from Ella Railway Station and a seven-minute walk from the Ella Spice Garden Cooking Class, offering easy access to the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge (4.7km), Hakgala Botanical Garden (48km), and Horton Plains National Park (50km). This 13-square-metre single-bedroom lodging features a private bathroom with bidet, free Wi-Fi, on-site parking, and a shared lounge/terrace plus garden; vegetarian and vegan breakfast options are available.
Sri Lanka
12/07 – 14/08
₹1910/nighttotal: ₹63030 (33 )
Friendly Inn Tourist Rest
1 2
hostel , Anuradhapura
Friendly Inn Tourist Rest in Anuradhapura offers convenient access to historical sites, located 6.9 kilometres from the railway station and within 8.4 kilometres of Kuttam Pokuna and Nature Park Anuradhapura. This family-friendly guesthouse provides air-conditioned rooms, complimentary WiFi, on-site parking, and an Asian breakfast served at its restaurant, with room service and a 24-hour front desk available for guest convenience.
9.0 325 reviews
Sri Lanka
11/08 – 31/08
₹15445/nighttotal: ₹308900 (20 )
Kitelantis Hotel And Resort
2 4
hostel , Kalpitiya
Kitelantis Hotel And Resort is located in Kalpitiya, on the northwestern coast of Sri Lanka, just a short distance from the Dutch Fort and the fishing harbour. The hotel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The hotel offers a range of amenities and activities, including a swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness centre. Guests can also enjoy direct access to the beach, water sports, and canoeing excursions.
Sri Lanka
27/07 – 21/08
₹22289/nighttotal: ₹557225 (25 )
Arugam Bay Paradise Palms
2 5
hostel , Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay Paradise Palms offers the Arugam Bay Paradise Palms deal, situated just a 5-minute walk from Arugam Bay Beach, 3.4 kilometres from Muhudu Maha Viharaya and 5.1 kilometres from Lagoon Safari - Pottuvils. This 30 square metre hostel provides one bedroom and one bathroom, with air conditioning, complimentary WiFi, a terrace, garden, on-site restaurant, and room service, with parking available and concierge services to assist with tours.
Top cities
Best Sri Lanka hostels with a locker
8.9 534 reviews
Sri Lanka
03/07 – 06/07
₹6228/nighttotal: ₹18684 (3 )
Noname Hostel And Cafe
1 6
hostel , Ella
Noname Hostel And Cafe is situated in Ella, just 2.7 kilometres from the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and 50 kilometres from Hakgala Botanical Garden. The hostel has consistently received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience. The hostel offers a single room with a shared kitchen and bathroom, accommodating one guest. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including free bikes, a shared lounge, a terrace, a bar, karaoke, and a shared kitchen, as well as modern conveniences like a dishwasher, microwave, and coffee machine.
8.4 73 reviews
Sri Lanka
13/08 – 27/08
₹2537/nighttotal: ₹35518 (14 )
Trail Town Lodge
1 4
hostel , Haputale
Trail Town Lodge, a one-bedroom house in Haputale, Sri Lanka, is located 24 kilometres from the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and 43 kilometres from Gregory Lake. This self-catering property offers free Wi-Fi, a garden, terrace, parking, and room service; breakfast options include continental, Asian, and vegetarian choices, and car rental is available on-site.
8.6 427 reviews
Sri Lanka
25/12 – 31/12
₹6656/nighttotal: ₹39936 (6 )
Ella New Green View
1 4
hostel , Ella
New Green View Cottage is located in Ella, just 3.9 miles from the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and 1.5 miles from Ella Train Station, making it a great base for exploring the area. The cottage has received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location and user experience, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Each unit features a private bathroom with a shower and a balcony offering stunning mountain views. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast, rent bikes or cars to explore the surroundings, and take advantage of the free Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, and room service.
9.5 6 reviews
Sri Lanka
23/11 – 27/11
₹2127/nighttotal: ₹8508 (4 )
Okan Rock Hostel Ella
1 4
hostel , Ella
Okan Rock Hostel Ella offers accommodation in Ella, situated 1.9 kilometres from the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and a 7-minute walk from Ella Spice Garden Cooking Class, with convenient access to Ella Train Station, which is a 15-minute walk away. This hostel provides rooms with balconies, some offering mountain views, private bathrooms, free WiFi, a shared kitchen, room service, a garden, and a terrace, alongside recreational activities like darts and bike rentals.
Frequently asked questions about hostels in Sri Lanka
What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?
For budget travellers, exploring the cultural triangle is a must. Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Polonnaruwa's ancient ruins, and Dambulla Cave Temple offer incredible history and stunning views without breaking the bank. Hiking Adam's Peak is another fantastic, affordable adventure, though it requires a good level of fitness. Beaches like Unawatuna and Mirissa offer cheap eats and accommodation, and you can easily spend days swimming and relaxing.
Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from the country?
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) near Colombo handles the vast majority of international flights. Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) in Hambantota sees less traffic.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Sri Lanka?
The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the local currency. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns and villages.
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Sri Lanka?
Navigating roads can be challenging. The road network is extensive, but the quality varies considerably. Driving conditions can be chaotic, particularly in Colombo. Public transport, such as buses, is widely available and affordable, but can be crowded and slow. Hiring a driver is a convenient and often cost-effective option for longer journeys.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Sri Lanka?
Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites. Remove your shoes before entering homes and some religious buildings. It's polite to greet people with a nod or a gentle 'Ayubowan'. Be mindful of local sensitivities around touching and public displays of affection. Learn a few basic Sinhala or Tamil phrases – it's greatly appreciated.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Sri Lanka?
Which traditional festivals define the spirit of the country?
Duruthu Perahera, a Buddhist festival in Kandy, is a spectacular event with elaborate processions of dancers and elephants. Sinhala and Tamil New Year is a vibrant celebration marking the beginning of the solar year. Poson Poya commemorates the arrival of Buddhism in the country.
What are the best hostels with parking in Sri Lanka?
What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns?
For medical emergencies, dial 119. For police, dial 119 or 118. It's always a good idea to have the contact information for your embassy or consulate readily available.
What are the best areas to spend a week?
A week allows for a good exploration of the country. A possible itinerary could combine the cultural triangle (Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla) with a few days relaxing on the beaches of the south coast (Unawatuna or Mirissa) and perhaps a visit to a tea plantation in the hill country (Kandy or Ella).
What are the best areas to spend a weekend?
For a weekend getaway, consider exploring the cultural triangle, focusing on one or two sites like Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa. Alternatively, a relaxing weekend could be spent on the beaches near Galle or exploring the city of Colombo.
Are there specific regions known for great weather?
The weather in Sri Lanka varies depending on the region and time of year. The hill country (Kandy, Nuwara Eliya) tends to be cooler and wetter than the coastal areas. The south coast generally enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round, but the monsoon season (May-September) brings rain.
Best Sri Lanka hostels with air conditioning
8.3 891 reviews
Sri Lanka
14/09 – 16/09
₹2675/nighttotal: ₹5350 (2 )
Sathkara City Center - Colombo
1 2
hostel , Colombo
Lost & Found - Colombo is located in Kollupitiya, a lively district just a short walk from the beach and close to Colombo City Centre Shopping Mall, Colombo Town Hall, and the National Art Gallery. This hostel has consistently received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. The accommodation offers a shared kitchen, a terrace, and a restaurant serving a variety of cuisines. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, room service, and luggage storage, making their stay comfortable and convenient.
8.5 1235 reviews
Sri Lanka
10/07 – 16/07
₹3950/nighttotal: ₹23700 (6 )
Laughing Leopard Hostel
1 4
hostel , Nuwara Eliya
Laughing Leopard Hostel is located in Nuwara Eliya, just 2.7 kilometres from Gregory Lake and 9.7 kilometres from Hakgala Botanical Garden, offering a convenient base for exploring the scenic surroundings. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, with a good location rating. The hostel features a shared kitchen, a bar, a terrace, and a garden, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and the option to participate in activities like hiking or visiting a nearby casino.
8.8 1118 reviews
Sri Lanka
17/07 – 24/07
₹6551/nighttotal: ₹45857 (7 )
Clock Inn Dehiwala
1 5
hostel , Mount Lavinia
Clock Inn Dehiwala is situated in Dehiwala, a short walk from Mount Lavinia Beach and close to other popular beaches and attractions. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience. Clock Inn Dehiwala offers a shared lounge and garden for guests to relax in. The hostel provides a range of amenities including a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar, as well as air-conditioned rooms, a shared kitchen, and free Wi-Fi.
9.9 8 reviews
Sri Lanka
27/06 – 04/07
₹1778/nighttotal: ₹12446 (7 )
One More Night Hostel
1 4
hostel , Sigiriya
The One More Night Hostel in Sigiriya offers a tranquil garden setting, located 4.8 kilometres from Sigiriya Rock and 6.8 kilometres from Pidurangala Rock, with Sigiriya Airport a mere 1.9 kilometres away. This accommodation provides complimentary WiFi, an on-site restaurant and bar, a sun terrace, and a playground, with the surrounding area popular for cycling and darts available at the hostel.
Best Sri Lanka hostels with laundry available
9.0 52 reviews
Sri Lanka
12/10 – 16/10
₹381/nighttotal: ₹1524 (4 )
Hakuna Matata Hostel
1 4
hostel , Sigiriya
Hakuna Matata Hostel in Sigiriya offers convenient access to Sigiriya Rock (2.4km) and Pidurangala Rock (5.5km), alongside Sigiriya Airport (4km). This single-bedroom guesthouse features a 12-square-metre floor area, a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, parking, and a garden, accommodating one guest; shared bathroom facilities with showers and toiletries are available.
8.8 259 reviews
Sri Lanka
17/11 – 27/11
₹1718/nighttotal: ₹17180 (10 )
Siril Guesthouse Hostel
1 2
hostel , Nuwara Eliya
Siril Guesthouse Hostel is located in Nuwara Eliya, a short distance from Gregory Lake and Hakgala Botanical Garden, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling town. The guesthouse has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and location, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. The guesthouse features a single bedroom and bathroom, perfect for a solo traveller or a couple. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast, relax in the garden and sun terrace, or prepare their own meals in the fully equipped kitchen.
7.9 1126 reviews
Sri Lanka
27/07 – 31/07
₹1634/nighttotal: ₹6536 (4 )
Kandy Backpackers Hostel
1 2
hostel , Kandy
Kandy Backpackers Hostel is conveniently located just 1.2 miles from Kandy's city centre, making it easy to access the railway station, bus station and the famous Buddhist Tooth Relic Temple. The hostel has received very good user ratings, with good reviews for its location and cleanliness. The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, from private rooms with en-suite bathrooms to shared dormitories, all with a floor area of 17 square metres. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, terrace, garden, restaurant, fitness centre, and a fully equipped kitchen.
9.3 487 reviews
Sri Lanka
04/08 – 07/09
₹4147/nighttotal: ₹140998 (34 )
Sixth Sense Hostel
1 5
hostel , Galle
Sixth Sense Hostel in Galle is situated approximately 8km from Galle Fort and a 15-minute walk from Unawatuna Beach, offering convenient access to major attractions. This single-bedroom guesthouse provides free private parking, a shared kitchen with fridge, freezer and microwave, a terrace, garden, and Wi-Fi, accommodating one guest and offering a range of breakfast options.